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Conservation Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Openlands

Conservation Planner

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

The Conservation Planner advances Openlands' mission to protect and steward land, water, and natural resources across the Chicago region. This role supports landscape-scale conservation and planning ...

DOCS Health

Hearing Conservationist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$325/day

Current certification as a hearing technician or occupational hearing conservationist * Experience within the last two years working as a Audiology Technician * Experience working with military ...

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All JobsConservation JobsConservation Jobs in Illinois

Conservation information

See Illinois salary details

$31K

$35.8K

$40.7K

How much do conservation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for conservation in Illinois is $35,795.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,400.00 and $36,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a conservation job?

Conservation jobs are roles focused on protecting, managing, and restoring natural environments, wildlife, and resources. These professionals work in various settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, parks, research institutions, and private companies. Common positions include conservation scientists, wildlife biologists, park rangers, and environmental educators. The goal of conservation work is to ensure the long-term sustainability and health of ecosystems and biodiversity. Conservation jobs often involve fieldwork, research, policy development, and community outreach.

What is a conservation job?

Conservation jobs focus on managing and protecting natural land and wildlife. Your duties as a conservationist depend on your area of specialization. Naturalists or animal biologists, for example, may study endangered species and work to protect them from extinction. Other conservation professionals may manage land and monitor animal populations in nature reserves. You can also work in conservation lobbying or organize education programs for a conservation NGO. You can even work as a conservation officer, a career in which your responsibilities involve enforcing laws meant to protect natural lands and wildlife. This type of career could include park ranger positions or natural resources officer jobs.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in conservation roles, and how are they addressed within teams?

Conservation professionals often encounter challenges such as securing sustainable funding, balancing the needs of communities and ecosystems, and adapting to changing environmental regulations. These issues are typically addressed through close collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, including scientists, policymakers, and local stakeholders. Regular team meetings, clear communication, and adaptive project management are essential to navigating these complexities and achieving conservation goals effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a conservationist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Conservationist, you need a background in environmental science, ecology, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, environmental monitoring tools, and sometimes certifications like Certified Conservation Professional (CCP) are commonly required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and collaboration skills are crucial for engaging stakeholders and advancing conservation goals. These abilities ensure effective management of natural resources and successful implementation of conservation projects.

What is the difference between Conservation vs Environmental Technician?

AspectConservationEnvironmental Technician
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in environmental science, ecology, or related fieldOften requires an associate's or bachelor's degree in environmental science or related area
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in natural settings, conservation projects, parks, and wildlife areasField and laboratory work, environmental monitoring, site assessments
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, conservation organizations, parks, wildlife agenciesEnvironmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutions

Conservation focuses on protecting natural resources and ecosystems through active management and preservation efforts, often involving fieldwork in natural settings. Environmental Technicians support environmental monitoring and assessment tasks, working in both field and lab environments. While both roles require related environmental credentials and may work in similar settings, Conservation emphasizes ecosystem preservation, whereas Environmental Technicians focus on data collection and environmental testing.

What are careers in conservation?

Careers in conservation involve protecting and managing natural resources, wildlife, and ecosystems. Common roles include conservation scientist, park ranger, environmental educator, and wildlife biologist, often requiring knowledge of ecology, fieldwork skills, and relevant certifications. These jobs typically involve outdoor work and collaboration with government agencies, NGOs, or research institutions.

What jobs can you do in conservation?

Conservation offers a variety of jobs including conservation scientist, wildlife biologist, park ranger, environmental educator, and habitat restoration specialist. These roles often require knowledge of ecology, fieldwork skills, and sometimes certifications such as GIS or environmental management. They typically involve working outdoors or in research settings to protect natural resources and ecosystems.
More about Conservation jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Conservation jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Conservation jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Conservation jobs in Illinois?

For Conservation jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Conservation jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Conservation jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Conservation jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Conservation job openings:

Conservation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conservation job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,795 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

CONSERVATION/HISTORIC PRESERVATION WORKER

State of Illinois

Beaverville, IL • On-site

$3.4K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

State Of Illinois rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 50 rated states

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 56103 
Opening Date: 07/28/2026
Closing Date: 08/11/2026
Agency: Department of Natural Resources
Site Name: Iroquois County Conservation Area 
Class Title: CONSERVATION/HISTORIC PRSVTN WKR (09317) 
Skill Option: None 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Up to $3,404 monthly based on hours worked, $19.56 per hour anticipated starting salary.
Job Type: Hourly
Category: Full Time 
County: Iroquois
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: None
Merit Comp Code: MC000

NOTE: THIS POSITION IS A TEMPORARY SEASONAL POSITION THAT WILL NOT EXCEED SIX MONTHS

Filling 1 Conservation Worker Positions

Anticipated Start Dates: 10/16/2026 

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

 

 

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

The Illinois Dept of Natural Resources is looking to hire Conservation/Historic Preservation Workers (CW's) to work at multiple locations throughout Illinois.   This Temporary seasonal position will not exceed six months.  Under immediate supervision, the CW's will perform routine maintenance and janitorial duties of site buildings and public use areas (such as: groundskeeping, cleaning of shelters, shower houses, and privies, and pick up and dispose of trash, litter, and debris).  They will operate and perform routine maintenance on equipment and vehicles (such as cleaning/repairing of hand tools, changing oil, fluids, filters, spark plugs, belts, etc.)  CW's will work to assist in habitat management and various hunting programs in addition to or in place of other duties.  Some CW's will be hired to do site interpretation in addition to or in place of other duties at select locations.   We welcome interested applicants who would like to be part of this team to apply today. 

Essential Functions
  • Under immediate supervision and on a temporary basis not to exceed six months, performs routine maintenance and janitorial duties of site buildings and public use areas:
  • Assists in area preparation and operation for the various hunting seasons:
  • Operates and performs routine maintenance on equipment and vehicles:
  • Assists in the inspection of public use areas for public safety and hazards:
  • Explains site rules and regulations to users:
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above 
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to the completion of eight years of elementary school.
Conditions of Employment
  • Requires completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history
  • Must be at least 17 years of age and possess a valid driver's license
  • Elementary knowledge of materials, tools, and equipment essential to grounds and building maintenance
  • Ability to operate and maintain tools, equipment and trucks 
  • Must be able to carry up to 60 pounds and walk over rough, broken terrain

The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description. 

Agency and Division Statements

Agency Statement-
Charged with preserving, protecting and promoting Illinois natural and cultural resources, Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) employees oversee water, wildlife, wetlands, and oil wells, parks, historic sites- and everything in between.  Employment opportunities vary greatly, often providing employees the chance to work indoors and out in a dynamic yet relaxed environment.   Working for the State of Illinois, IDNR employees receive excellent benefits, including, vision health and dental insurance, a retirement plan and deferred compensation options: state holidays and other time off; as well as pre-tax benefit programs.

Office of Land Management-
The Office of Land Management (OLM) oversees nearly 400 individual parcels of land and institutes a wide variety of programs and activities advocating outdoor recreation through sustainable use, conservation, and preservation.  The Historic Sites Division of the Office of Land Management oversees 57 Historic Sites. Monuments and Memorials.  OLM facilitates activities from small group interpretive programming at Historical Sites: to hiking, hunting, fishing, boating, and camping.  

Work Hours: Variable
Headquarter Location: 2803 E 3300 N Rd, Beaverville, Illinois, 60912
Work County: Iroquois
Agency Contact: Valerie Streenz
Email: valerie.streenz@illinois.gov
Phone #: 217-785-2262
Posting Group: Environmental & Natural Resources

This position [DOES NOT] contain "Specialized Skills" (as that term is used in CBAs).

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the "Apply" button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees - a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the "View Profile" link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.

If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:

State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid

Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com - click "Application Procedures" in the footer of every page of the website.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your "junk mail", "spam", or "other" folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

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Get the full story on Breakroom

State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

Social media

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